Squirrel Nut Zippers to Celebrate 30 Years of 'Hot' with Exclusive Show

The band will perform their iconic 1996 album in its entirety on a special 'In the Afterlife' tour.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Squirrel Nut Zippers, the eclectic swing band that rose to fame in the 1990s with their hit album 'Hot', are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the record with a special tour. The band will perform 'Hot' in its entirety, bringing their infectious blend of swing, jazz, Delta blues, and Southern storytelling to fans old and new.

Why it matters

The Squirrel Nut Zippers' 'Hot' album was a cultural phenomenon, defining a generation's rediscovery of vintage Americana and cementing the band's legacy as one of the most original and unpredictable acts of the era. This 30th anniversary celebration is a chance for fans to revisit the music that sparked a cultural bonfire and continues to resonate with new audiences.

The details

The 'In the Afterlife' tour will kick off on February 13 in Los Angeles, CA at the Teragram Ballroom. The album 'Hot' was recorded at the famed Kingsway Studio in New Orleans and radiated authenticity with its warm analog sound and wry, vivid storytelling. The album topped the Billboard 200 for 51 weeks and produced standout tracks like 'Put a Lid On It,' 'Blue Angel,' and the band's biggest hit, 'Hell,' which continues to be featured in popular TV shows.

  • The Squirrel Nut Zippers formed in 1993.
  • The 'Hot' album was released in 1996.
  • The 'In the Afterlife' tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of 'Hot' will kick off on February 13, 2026.

The players

Squirrel Nut Zippers

An eclectic swing band that rose to fame in the 1990s with their hit album 'Hot', blending swing, jazz, Delta blues, and Southern storytelling.

Jimbo Mathus

The bandleader of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, who says 'Hot' was 'pure alchemy — a mix of mischief, melody, and magic.'

Chris Phillips

The founding drummer of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, who now manages the modern-day band.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Hot' was pure alchemy — a mix of mischief, melody, and magic. It was never meant to chase trends; it was meant to burn bright and last. And somehow, it still does.”

— Jimbo Mathus, Bandleader

What’s next

Tickets for the February 'In the Afterlife' tour dates are available now at https://www.snzippers.com/tourdates.

The takeaway

The Squirrel Nut Zippers' 30th anniversary celebration of their iconic 'Hot' album is a testament to the enduring power of their unique sound, which blended vintage Americana with a modern sensibility and continues to captivate new generations of listeners.